Wednesday, June 20, 2007

So far, we have collected 65 responses to our parent survey. When we factor out the bouncebacks and those families for whom we had multiple email addresses, we land up with about 130 potential responders. As far as surveys go, 65 out of 130 is fantastic. Of course, 130 out of 130 would be even better! So, if you haven't yet sent yours in, please do so. Also, if you are a current or past parent who did not receive an email with the survey invitation, or you know someone who should have received it and did not, please email me and let me know: gperl@mhafyos.org , and I'll be happy to add your names to the list. We do hope to share the results of the survey with you in the beginning of the school year so stay tuned.

On the Goals of Jewish Education

"Our goal should be to make it possible for every Jewish person, child or adult, to be exposed to the mystery and romance of Jewish history, to the enthralling insights and special sensitivities of Jewish thought, to the sanctity and symbolism of Jewish existence, and to the power and profundity of Jewish faith. As a motto and declaration of hope, we might adapt the dictum that says, ‘They searched from Dan to Beer Sheva and did not find an ‘am ha’aretz" ‘Am ha’aretz, usually understood as an ignoramus, an illiterate, may for our purposes be defined as one indifferent to Jewish visions and values, untouched by the drama and majesty of Jewish history, unappreciative of the resourcefulness and resilience of the Jewish community, and unconcerned with Jewish destiny. Education, in its broadest sense, will enable young people to confront the secret of Jewish tenacity and existence, the quality of Torah teaching which fascinates and attracts irresistibly. They will then be able, even eager, to find their place in a creative and constructive community."

From "A Time to Act," by Professor Isadore Twersky, the late Talner Rebbe, Nathan Littauer Professor of Hebrew Literature and Philosophy at Harvard University, and member of the Commissionon Jewish Education in North America. Presented at a meeting of the Commision on June 12, 1990.